Top 5 London Cruises & Sailing Tours: Reviews & Recommendations

Planning a visit to London and looking for a unique way, that might be even memorable, to see the city? Well, you might think about ditching the typical bus tour and jumping on a boat! London cruises and sailing tours are very cool for soaking in iconic landmarks from a totally unique point of view – the Thames. I’ve taken a few of these myself, and honestly, it is just amazing! So, let’s take a look at five of the best, that are available right now, that could make your trip to London unforgettable.

1. City Cruises: The Standard Tourist Option

City Cruises, they are rather popular and a really reliable option that is basically made for tourists. You know, very tourist-centric! They have various boats running up and down the Thames all day long. Too, it’s almost like a hop-on, hop-off bus, only it’s on the river! Very similar to using a metro map when touring an unfamiliar area! A great thing to be had. Their sightseeing cruise usually hits all the must-see places, like the Tower of London, Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. The tour guides, that are on board, generally share all kinds of neat stories and facts, which sometimes is fascinating! They also offer dinner cruises and afternoon tea cruises, which can be a nice little change of pace, like when a meal is part of your site-seeing. It’s all so very exciting.

My own experience with City Cruises was on a sunny afternoon, yet somewhat chill, I would say. The top deck provided killer views and photo opportunities galore, clearly visible and unrestricted! The commentary? Really engaging, maybe even informative, and kept everyone interested. But, very! do be warned, it does get a bit crowded, particularly during the peak season, so arriving early could be in your best interest to secure a good seat could make all the difference!

2. Thames Rockets: The Adrenaline Junkie’s Ride

If you are really into some action and excitement, and who doesn’t want to spice things up? You could possibly check out Thames Rockets. These aren’t your typical sightseeing boats. Yet! they’re speedboats! A much quicker route, basically. That, when they are not zipping along the river, the guide throws in little snippets of London’s history, so too you’re getting some info, and entertainment! You know, you get your education and kicks, very efficient!. These tours typically run around 50 to 75 minutes, which are quite reasonable, so you can feel the wind in your hair as you zoom past the landmarks. Remember: Secure that wig. Very, it will add to your overall adventure and memories.

I tried Thames Rockets during an, like, absolutely rare sunny day in London (yes, they do exist!). Really, the combination of speed and the music blasting from the speakers made it feel, very! much like a James Bond movie scene. Of course, yet a more tourist-centric scene. That feeling! very powerful. Though it can be quite a bit chilly, basically even in summer, so bundle up appropriately! Remember to factor that in when wearing your Bond tuxedo.

3. Thames River Sightseeing: Budget-Friendly Choice

Looking for a pretty decent, yet less expensive alternative? Yet? you could try Thames River Sightseeing. They generally offer standard sightseeing cruises at a more affordable rate, fairly accessible! They hit a lot of the major attractions, too, and offer recorded commentary in several languages, or at least a couple of languages. It, it is almost like the discount airline version of river cruises, you are still getting to see the main sights without, arguably, paying premium prices! So good to know that there are options.

What I enjoyed most about Thames River Sightseeing was its convenience, in a manner. The boats run fairly often, quite so, from different piers, which does make it easy to hop on and off, very handy!. I found the audio commentary adequate, very slightly adequate maybe, you could say. I suppose. In some respects, just enough information to give you some context about the spots you’re seeing. While they might not have all frills or bells or whistles of some pricier options, like all boats might include, the price might just make it all the more appealing!

4. French Brothers River Cruises: Upstream Delights

For a unique change of pace, or maybe, in that case, a new and interesting choice? You know. To compare the options available on water. French Brothers River Cruises heads upstream from central London, moving past Windsor Castle and Maidenhead. As I was saying, this sort of cruise is very suitable for those wanting to experience a totally, extremely different view of the Thames. So pretty. Rather, than the hustle and bustle of city life.. The boats are really comfortable, pretty much a guarantee and offer a, actually slightly relaxed vibe.

I actually took the cruise up to Windsor, at the very end of a holiday weekend, and it provided a peaceful break. very rewarding indeed. Gliding past the rich landscapes and beautiful riverside homes offered a pleasant escape from all frantic scenes I know all too well from city life. Make sure, that you might be needing a packed lunch (unless the cruise provides that kind of accommodations and catering!)

5. Uber Boat by Thames Clippers: The Commuter Experience turned Sightseeing

So, want to ride a boat and see sights while doing so? Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, basically these vessels are commonly used by commuters, who want a, frankly better way to get around. As a matter of fact, this does stop at different piers along the Thames. It really does gives you a flexible way of, or seeing the main sights or getting from one point to another, by the way. The experience might not include a guided tour, or some version thereof, but you do get some pretty great views of the city and lots of different sights from the water, alright!

I’ve actually used Thames Clippers a number of times while traveling through London! In fact, it really has made my journey faster (or quicker? Or at least less traffic filled). I always found this reliable! Alright? Sitting near an, in fact, an absolutely open window, allowed a closer, maybe much more in depth look at various landmarks on my travel down and about the River.